Known as the City of the Tribes, Galway is a popular tourist destination and a gateway to the numerous scenic areas of southern Ireland.
For those who come to visit, being based in the city centre means you are within easy reach of all that Galway has to offer. We did our research and came up with five of the best options for places to stay in the heart of the city.
House Hotel
From €189/ night
Nestled in the heart of Galway’s Latin Quarter, just off Quay Street and the Spanish Arch, this upscale hotel is perfectly positioned for exploring all the city has to offer. Set in a charming old stone building, the hotel boasts a distinctive art deco interior with modern, well-appointed guest rooms featuring soundproofed windows, flat-screen satellite TVs, complimentary WiFi, rain forest showers, and laptop safes. An on-site restaurant, The House Bistro, is stylishly furnished and offers a contemporary all day gastro bar menu. The House is also home to Galway’s most popular cocktail bar, and the hotel is a stones’ throw from attractions including Galway Cathedral, as well as boutique shops and restaurants.
The Western Hotel
From €176/ night
Family-run hotels always have an extra special feel, and The Western is no different. Situated in the heart of galway, and just a short walk from the beach, the hotel is full of character and never more so than in the evenings when it plays host to to live entertainment in The Western Bar, several times a week. There’s also an on-site restaurant serving hearty meals, while other notable amenities include cooked and continental breakfasts served daily and free valet parking. Guest rooms have private bathrooms with baths, showers and hairdryers. The Bold Art Gallery, Galway Shopping Center and the Greyhound Stadium are all nearby.
Harbour Hotel
From €187/ night
Located on Galway’s scenic waterfront and just minute’s from the city’s bustling centre, this excellent mid-range hotel offers modern rooms with cable TV and tea/coffee facilities, plus a private bathroom with free toiletries and a hairdryer. The Harbour Seafood Bar & Grill offers a contemporary space for homemade dining, while there’s also a bar that shows live sports on large-screen TVs. The Quay Street shopping street is just a few minutes’ walk away, while the scenic Salthill Prom is 10 minutes by foot.
Eyre Square Hotel
From €171/ night
Another great choice for those without a huge budget but who want a well-appointed hotel, the Eyre Square offers brightly furnished rooms with private bathrooms, a TV, hairdryer, tea and coffee-making facilities and free WiFi. Full Irish and continental breakfasts are served at Le Bistro Restaurant, while there’s also a lively on-site bar. The hotel is located next to the bus and train station and within a 5-minute walk from Galway city centre.
Hotel Meyrick
From €254/ night
Overlooking the picturesque Eyre Square in the centre of the city, Hotel Meyrick features spacious and elegant rooms while the hotel itself has an array of impressive amenities including a gym (offering splendid views of the surrounding area), hydrotherapy baths, outdoor hot tub and a steam room. There’s also a highly regarded but casual on-site restaurant where guests can enjoy excellent food, an eclectic wine list and creative cocktails. Galway’s main station is just seconds away, while the dock area can be reached in around 5 minutes on foot.